Principal or Advanced NDT Research Engineer

Here at the NCC we have a first-rate NDT & Metrology capability comprising experienced personnel, top of the range equipment and an excellent knowledge base. Measurement and inspection is integral to the quality assurance of composite parts and processes. Almost every engineering challenge we take on at the NCC will require some level of measurement or inspection.
As part of our Materials Engineering capability, the NDT team contribute to the advancement of state-of-the-art inspection methods, enabling our partners to design, manufacture, and validate high-performance composite structures with confidence.
What you'll be doing
As Principal or Advanced NDT Research Engineer you will be responsible for:
o Providing technical leadership on R&D and industrial development projects involving NDT technologies
o Leading the design, development, and validation of innovative inspection techniques
o Supporting the delivery of high-quality technical outputs to industry partners
o Contributing to project planning, technical strategy, and risk management
o Collaborating with engineers, researchers, and external stakeholders across sectors
o Supporting the continuous development of NDT capability within the organisation
o Mentoring junior engineers and contributing to knowledge sharing within the team
o Creating and revising technical documents and advocate for publishing technical content.
o Establish and develop effective partnerships internally and externally with industry partners.
o Represent NCC in relevant technical forums and champion our technical strategy.
To find out more please read the attached job description combining the Advanced and Principal level Research Engineer JDs.

o You have experience working in NDT of Composites and have knowledge of different methods used and the associated capabilities and limitations.
o Preferably you will hold industrially recognised qualifications in Ultrasonic Testing, Radiographic Testing or Thermography (EN4179 or ISO9712)
o Demonstrated experience in R&D or industry, providing technical leadership on development projects
o Evidence of delivering innovative technical solutions within engineering or research environments
o Industrial focus - proven experience in a practical setting, solving real-world problems with real-world solutions.
o A basic working knowledge of composite materials, including:
# Composite manufacturing processes
# Typical failure mechanisms in composite structures
o Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
o Ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly to technical and non-technical audiences
o A degree (or equivalent experience) in Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or a related discipline
What do we offer in return?
Hybrid and flexible working as standard, annual salary reviews, company paid private medical insurance, up to 12.5% employer pension contribution, great people, honorary staff status at the University of Bristol. With a genuine focus on wellbeing, EDI and learning and development this is a chance to build your career in a thriving R&D facility with a bright future.

+ Who are NCC?
NCC is a world-leading innovation organisation that turns cutting-edge research and technology into industrial impact.
What we do
We help manufacturers take on bigger challenges - whether that's building cleaner aircraft, scaling up offshore wind, or strengthening the UK's supply chains. We're here to deliver practical outcomes, not prototypes that sit on shelves.
Who we work with
We work across 16 sectors, from defence and energy to infrastructure and space. Some projects are with global tier 1s, others with small UK firms solving one specific problem - the works always varied, and always real.
What it's like here
We're not a startup. We're not a corporate. We're a national centre with the kit, time and people to do the job properly. The teams are focused, the thinking is sharp, and you'll be trusted to get on with it.
Why this job matters
This role isn't just internal support - it's part of how we deliver nationally important work. If we do our job right, the UK's manufacturers can do theirs better.
Not sure you meet all the requirements? Let us decide! Research shows that women and members of other underrepresented groups tend not to apply for jobs if they think they may not meet every qualification, when in fact they often do. At the NCC we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and strongly encourage you to apply.
We ensure that all hiring decisions are made without regard to age, race, national origin, sex, disability, gender, gender identity, religion, or any other protected characteristics, and will treat all applications with the strictest confidence. We're always open to hearing how we can support flexible working in different ways, including part-time work. Please don't be afraid to ask about what we can do to support your needs including alternative ways to apply. Please contact [email protected]. All requests will be carefully and fairly considered. We wish you every success in your job search.